On Monday, French cyber‑security authorities flagged a coordinated breach that forced the refrigeration systems in about 300 Intermarche outlets to shut down, turning cold aisles into hot ones.
Dominique Schelcher, CEO of Cooperative U, called the assault “unprecedented” after the chain’s 100 stores lost fresh and frozen goods overnight. Intermarche also confirmed that several of its Netto stores suffered the same fate.
The hack exploited legacy firmware from Danish supplier Danfoss, according to a company statement. Its AK‑SM800 and AK‑SC355 units, no longer receiving updates, were remotely triggered into forced defrosting, a move that left millions of products spoiled.
Paris prosecutors opened an investigation into the incident, citing evidence of fuel‑related fires at affected sites. The probe aims to map the damage and identify the attackers, a task complicated by the widespread deployment of the vulnerable units.
Security experts warn that the event underscores the risk of hybrid attacks on critical infrastructure. President Macron’s recent decree to shield France from such threats comes into play, but the attack’s timing raises questions about potential Russian involvement.
Supermarkets are scrambling to replace the outdated systems and the government has pledged to audit all food‑retail refrigeration equipment. A public hearing is scheduled for next month to decide whether criminal charges will be filed against the perpetrators.